Podcasts about irish tech news

Kota, the Irish-founded employee benefits platform, has launched the country's first Instant Auto Enrolment Solution following its €12.6 million Series A investment in May. Their purpose-built solution gets Irish employers Auto Enrolment ready in just a few clicks. With 1 in 4 businesses unprepared and statutory contributions set to begin on 1?January ?2026, employers have just five months to get ready. Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary is urging businesses to "act now", describing auto-enrolment as "the biggest transformation of pension policy in the history of the State." Kota's new offering enables HR and finance teams to implement a compliant occupational pension with Irish Life within minutes. I recently caught up with Luke Mackey the Co-Founder and CEO of.Kota Luke talks about his background, what Kota does, AI and more. About Kota: Launched in 2023, Kota is building the internet infrastructure for employee benefits. Empowering modern businesses to offer employees insurance and retirement benefits more easily and affordably, all through one integrated platform, app and embedded insurance solution. Powered by proprietary infrastructure, Kota removes the friction from global benefits for HR and finance teams. Founded in Ireland, Kota supports hundreds of businesses and is backed by some of Europe's leading investors including Eurazea, EQT Ventures, Northzone and Frontline, having raised over €20 million to date. See more podcasts here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

KINTO Join, the leading sustainable mobility solutions company, has revealed its own data which shows that the company has saved over 760,500km worth of transport emissions across Europe. This equates to over 122,200kg of CO2 or 25 Olympic-sized swimming pools. In Ireland specifically, KINTO Join has helped its customers to reduce transport emissions to the equivalent of 918kg of CO2 or almost 8,000km. Across Ireland, the UK, Italy, Serbia, and Belgium, KINTO Join has facilitated almost 50,000 sustainable commuting journeys for businesses and universities, averaging savings of 5,200 kg of CO? for each organisation using its solutions. In practical terms, a company would need to grow 250 trees for at least a year to absorb these emissions. Patrizia Niehaus, CEO, KINTO Join, said: "Our data underscores the real-world value of sustainable mobility solutions in terms of reducing transport emissions. As well as enabling people to commute more sustainably, these tools empower organisations to achieve their ESG goals. "They also help countries like Ireland to take steps towards its climate targets and benefit the planet as a whole. Of course, global action is required to tackle the climate crisis, but it's important to remember that micro-level changes can collectively have a macro-level impact." Kinto Join recently launched its 'Ireland on the Move' Report to gauge commuter journeys, preferences, experiences and challenges across Ireland. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Fianna Fáil's Jim Gavin has emerged as the candidate with the strongest national radio footprint in the run-up to the 2025 Presidential election, according to new research from Irish PR intelligence platform Everhaze. Analysis of 2,500 radio clips over the past twelve weeks shows that while Independent Catherine Connolly leads overall mentions (36.3%), Gavin (33.5%) pulls ahead in terms of national airwaves share, with 34.9% of his coverage on national talk formats. By contrast, Connolly's campaign is more heavily weighted to local outlets (68.6% of her coverage) and Heather Humphreys' profile is even more locally concentrated (71.3%). This national advantage translates into strong presence across high-reach talk shows such as The Pat Kenny Show, Newstalk Breakfast, and The Anton Savage Show, where margins between candidates are typically slim but Gavin remains consistently competitive. On local radio, however, Connolly retains the edge, leading in 13 counties including Donegal (+22pp) and Galway (+18pp). Gavin posts selective peaks (notably Louth, where he dominates with 77.5% of mentions) and converts his national presence into 8 county leads overall. Humphreys, meanwhile, has a more concentrated footprint, with standout strength in Cavan/Monaghan (+12pp lead). Sentiment analysis underscores a three-way contrast: Humphreys records the most positive net tone (+12pp), Gavin trends neutral-positive (+5pp), while Connolly faces a more polarised balance (?3pp). Speaking about the findings of the report, James McCann, CEO of Everhaze said: "With nominations closed and facing into the four week sprint, each candidate will be looking to own the share of voice across the national airwaves to capture undecided voters. Outside of Dublin the counties of Longford, Leitrim and Roscommon have heard the least from all candidates so far which is unsurprising given the battle for the urban centres of Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway. As the campaign heats up its every candidate's race to lose in presenting a clear narrative and message to the public." Everhaze is an Irish-built PR intelligence platform that tracks real-time media coverage across radio, print, and online sources in Ireland and the UK. Its technology combines broadcast capture with AI-driven analysis to map who is getting talked about, where, and in what tone. The platform is widely used by communicators to monitor campaigns, understand sentiment shifts, and measure share of voice. As part of the 2025 Presidential campaign, Everhaze has launched the "Battle of the Airwaves" tracker, a live view of how each candidate is performing week-by-week on radio. The tracker highlights: Share of voice across national vs local stations County-by-county exposure showing where candidates are winning or lagging Sentiment balance, capturing whether coverage is favourable, critical, or neutral Programme battlegrounds, where margins between rivals are razor-thin Updated weekly, the Battle of the Airwaves gives voters, journalists, and campaign teams a transparent lens on who is winning the media war as the race for Áras an Uachtaráin heats up. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

The Royal Irish Academy is delighted to announce the publication of Irish STEM Lives. The book, the latest in the Dictionary of Irish Biography's (DIB) ongoing Lives series, hits bookshelves on 24 September 2025 and the publication will be followed by a launch event held at The Royal Irish Academy on 8 October 2025. Edited by Turlough O'Riordan and Jane Grimson, Irish STEM Lives retraces the extraordinary work and contributions of natural philosophers, mathematicians, engineers, particle physicists, code breakers and many more, through a selection of forty-six exceptional pioneers from the DIB. This book will take the reader on a journey across artificial intelligence, climate change, food safety, transport and communication, touching all the fields of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) that are integral to modern society. A notable theme of the book is the evolution of the pursuit of knowledge over the past four centuries, covering relevant breakthrough events in STEM history, such as the development of the 'scientific method' in the circle surrounding Robert Boyle and the large-scale particle physics experiments undertaken by John Stewart Bell and Anne Kernan at CERN. Another major theme is the representation of diversity within STEM fields in Ireland. Women in STEM are often overlooked and barely mentioned, relegated to the margins of textbooks despite their crucial contributions to scientific and technological advancements. Irish STEM Lives brings their stories to the forefront: from Mary Ward to Anne Kernan, these women played an essential role in shaping the landscape of science and technology. To honour their invaluable contributions and acknowledge their efforts, the only pictures included in the book are those of female STEM practitioners. This decision was made to challenge the conventional norms of STEM representation. The absence of male figures in the visual elements serves as a reminder that scientific progress is not an endeavour exclusive to men and that women have been, and continue to be, fundamental in driving innovation and discovery, which the editors discuss in their introduction as they delve into the issues impacting women in STEM historically. Turlough O'Riordan, digital editor with the Dictionary of Irish Biography, said: 'The volume represents the rich diversity of achievements across Irish STEM history. The lives collected - across science, technology, engineering and mathematics - provide readers with both a fascinating variety of insights into those domains, alongside an understanding of the amazing women and men behind them'. Jane Grimson MRIA, said: 'Ireland is rightly recognised globally for our many wonderful creative writers. However, what is much less well known is the vital contribution which many women and men, who were either born in Ireland or who worked here, have made to the advancement of STEM across a wide range of areas which are still important today. This volume records their achievements.' Ruth Hegarty, Managing Editor of Publications at the Royal Irish Academy said: 'Irish STEM Lives is an important publication because, by looking at the past, it aims to spark future change. The portraits of women in the book are meant to inspire a new generation of young women to see themselves reflected in these roles and to understand that they, too, can be leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.' Irish STEM Lives is available in bookshops and through the RIA Publishing House via www.ria.ie. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote y...

Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) has published its Generative Artificial Intelligence Survey Report 2025, offering a data-rich snapshot of how generative AI (GenAI) is reshaping the Irish education landscape. The report draws on insights from over 2,200 staff and learners across further and higher education and the English language education sector. The first national survey of its kind in Ireland, the Generative Artificial Intelligence Survey Report 2025 outlines how generative AI is understood, used and perceived within educational settings, and its anticipated impact on teaching, learning, assessment and the workplace. Key Findings of the QQI report Limited awareness of institutional supports: both staff and learners indicated limited awareness and clarity of institutional policies or guidance on the use of GenAI, highlighting the importance of clearer strategies and more structured support. Urgent need for GenAI literacy: the report identifies a critical need for targeted training and digital upskilling to ensure that in cases where GenAI is applied in teaching and learning, that it is used ethically and effectively. Apprehension around GenAI used for admission processes: both staff and learners expressed discomfort with the possibility that GenAI could be used in admission processes, raising concerns about fairness and clarity. GenAI and academic integrity: about a third of staff and learners think it is appropriate for students to use GenAI tools in assessments; as long as they clearly explain how and why they used them. Impact of GenAI in assessment: many staff and learners believe that GenAI is very to extremely likely change how learners are assessed over the next five years. Worry regarding reduced credibility of qualifications: a significant number of both staff and learner respondents believe that trust in qualifications may decline if it becomes difficult to determine whether GenAI was used to obtain them. To support deeper engagement with the data, QQI has developed interactive dashboards that allow users to explore the survey findings in greater detail. These dashboards offer dynamic visualisations and filters, enabling employers, educators, and policymakers to examine trends by types of institutions, age, gender and role of respondents, and fields of education. This tool is designed to help stakeholders make informed decisions about workforce development, digital skills training, and strategic planning in response to the evolving role of generative AI. The full report and dashboards can be accessed here: Analysis of results from the Generative Artificial Intelligence Survey 2025 | Quality and Qualifications Ireland More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Pure Telecom, Ireland's high-speed broadband and telecoms provider, has announced new results from its Connected Lives 2025 survey, revealing almost a third (32%) of adults believe the thumbs-up emoji is passive aggressive. The survey of 1,001 adults in Ireland was conducted by Censuswide on behalf of Pure Telecom and sought to explore the various communication styles across different demographics. It found that while commonly used to signal acceptance or approval, the thumbs-up emoji has become a sign of rudeness for some. A significant 44% of adults under 25 believe it is passive aggressive, compared to just 12% of those aged 55 and over. The research examined how adults are communicating with each other in their daily lives. When asked what the most recent digital communication they had with someone in their personal life was, 36% of adults said it was via instant message, followed by 18% who had a voice call. Meanwhile, instant message - considered by many as a casual form of communicating - is the second-most cited form of communication for those who are in employment. Almost a quarter (23%) reported that their most recent work communication was via instant message, after email at 32%. With many instant messaging apps enabling users to see when their message has been read, and when the recipient has been online, the research shows that having a message left 'on read' - when a recipient reads a message but doesn't respond - makes 48% of adults anxious. Although, 41% admit they do this themselves, leaving the sender waiting a day or longer. Similarly, 47% of adults can't stand seeing their message being left unread when they know the recipient has been online. The research found that 36% of adults get nervous about posting a message in a group chat in case no one responds and 31% have even deleted messages they have sent to group chats after no one replied. Meanwhile, Pure Telecom's survey suggests that the text message - once viewed as a game-changer in how people communicate - could be on the way out for person-to-person interactions. One in 10 adults have never sent a text message, with this figure rising to one in four adults aged under 25. Paul Connell, CEO, Pure Telecom said: "Our research shows just how much meaning people now attach to even the smallest digital gestures. A simple thumbs-up can spark very different reactions, depending on the recipient's age. So, while a Baby Boomer might see it as a perfectly acceptable response to a message from one of their children, the recipient might spend the rest of the day wondering what their problem is. "Despite the nuances, digital communication is often the glue that keeps people together. From staying in touch with your other half throughout the day, to having a fantasy football group, these tools make it easier to stay close no matter the distance. At Pure Telecom, we are passionate about keeping people connected online and promise not to leave any of our customers 'on read'." See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

The Dell Technologies Forum took place today at the RDS in Dublin with Peter O'Mahony, former Ireland rugby captain and Grand Slam winner, Lynne Cantwell, most capped Irish women's rugby player and Head of Women's Strategy at the IRFU, David Humphreys, former Ireland international and Performance Director at the IRFU headlining the event which showcased how AI can help organisations drive peak performance, increase productivity and spark innovation. The Forum brought together approximately 600 of business and IT leaders to explore the latest developments in AI-powered transformation, the next generation of AI PCs, modern data centres and multicloud strategies. Conversations centred on how these advances can help strengthen competitiveness and unlock new growth opportunities. Across the keynote, solutions expo, curated breakout sessions, insightful panels and more, decision makers heard from a range of exciting experts and speakers on the innovative solutions that can empower them to transform at speed and scale up their success. This comes as Dell's Innovation Catalyst Study 2025 revealed that while 76% of Irish organisations view AI as a strategic driver of business growth, almost half (46%) are struggling to keep pace with rapid technological change and concerns around security, expertise and compliance. Peter O'Mahony took to the stage to share lessons from elite sport on building a high-performance culture on and off the pitch, while Lynne Cantwell and David Humphreys discussed how teamwork, leadership and innovation can help organisations thrive in an era of technological transformation. Other speakers included Jason Ward, EMEA North Vice-President and Managing Director of Dell Technologies Ireland; Alyssa Boyle, Head of Commercial Operations at Studio Ulster; and Gemma Leo, Head of Business Support & Projects at the Crann Centre. Speaking at the Dell Technologies Forum, Mark Hopkins, General Manager of Dell Technologies Ireland, said: "AI is no longer a question of "if" - it's a question of how to make it work better, faster, and more securely to provide the right outcomes for your business. Leaders across Ireland are now looking to scale AI responsibly, modernise infrastructure and prepare their workforce for what's next. Through this year's Dell Technologies Forum, we're bringing together the technologies, insights, and collaborations that help businesses turn ambition into action. Whether it's scaling GenAI, modernising infrastructure, or empowering the workforce with AI-enabled devices, the Forum is where organisations see what's possible - and how to make it real. "The insights of Irish rugby legends, alongside leading voices from the technology and business sectors, highlighted how teams can achieve peak performance - whether on the field or in the boardroom. At Dell Technologies Ireland, we are committed to helping organisations across the country harness AI and emerging technologies to innovate with confidence and turn potential into tangible results." To find out more about the Dell Technologies Forum, click here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Klearcom, a leading provider of global contact centre testing solutions, today announces that it has established its first physical base in the US with the opening of a new office in Boonton, New Jersey. To facilitate this growth, Klearcom will hire 20 new team members in the US. The announcement has been welcomed by Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment of Ireland. Headquartered in Waterford, Klearcom is currently pursuing aggressive growth in the US market. The new base will enable Klearcom to acquire more US-based customers and strengthen relationships with existing clients, such as Google, Mastercard and Visa. This will help the company to grow its share in the interactive voice response (IVR) market, currently valued at $5.9BN and growing at a rate of 7% per annum. The new hires, to be appointed across sales and customer service over the next 12 months, represent a significant investment from Klearcom. They, and the New Jersey base, will be central to enhancing service delivery and providing on-the-ground support to Klearcom's growing US customer base. As the IVR market continues to grow at pace, the expansion will ensure Klearcom stays ahead of market challenges and seizes new opportunities. At the same time, Klearcom will continue to deliver reliable and quality testing for businesses' automated voice systems, especially within critical customer service channels. The expansion will facilitate faster onboarding, greater support and a more personalised service, enabling the company to align more closely with US business priorities, time zones and escalation needs. Mark Rohan, co-founder and chief operating officer, Klearcom, said: "The US market is vital to Klearcom's growth strategy. As such, this announcement is not only a mark of our success in the US to-date, but also our commitment to businesses there. And, while this is our first office in the US, it will not be our only one. "For us, the expansion comes at the perfect time as businesses increasingly demand cutting-edge technology over outdated legacy systems. Our AI-driven IVR testing is the fastest in the world, enabling enterprises to quickly identify and resolve issues within their telecom system infrastructure, and cementing our position as the leading provider of contact centre testing solutions. "Our US office doesn't just mean faster response times - it means being on the ground, right where our customers need us most." Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment of Ireland, said: "Klearcom is a prime example of an Irish company whose ambition has driven impressive growth on the global stage. This next step in the company's journey will open the door to exceptional opportunities within the United States, which have the potential to take the business to new heights. I look forward to watching the team's progress as they grow their footprint in this important market." See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Zeeko, an Irish education technology company, today announced the launch of its new mobile phone signal blocking pouches aimed at secondary schools in Ireland. The Zeeko Phone Blocking System is unique in combining patent-pending, fire-resistant, waterproof and durable phone pouches with complete signal-blocking technology along with the Zeeko Safe Lock System, which eliminates sharp pin puncture risks. Supported by Zeeko Done4U, schools receive tailored training, surveys, and policy guidance delivered by experienced internet safety presenters. Joe Kenny, CEO, Zeeko, said, "With a proven track record in working with schools across Ireland to deliver internet safety training, Zeeko is now delighted to launch our novel mobile phone signal blocking pouches for secondary schools across Ireland. Our certified fire-resistant pouches, which are fully signal blocking, combined with the Zeeko Safe Lock System and with the support of our Zeeko Done4U training service, will enable schools to create focused, safe, and phone-free learning environments while empowering students to focus, connect, and thrive." He added, "Zeeko is delighted to have been selected as one of the preferred suppliers of mobile phone signal blocking pouches to secondary schools across Ireland by the Department of Education and Youth. With our patent-pending Zeeko Phone Blocking System, we've built a solution that goes further than just a phone pouch." Since 2015 Zeeko a NovaUCD client company, and with support from Enterprise Ireland, has developed and delivered cutting-edge programmes and tools to promote digital safety, wellbeing, and independent thinking with a focus on creating a world where young people can safely benefit from the internet and technology. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless TD announced today that Ireland has officially surpassed the €1 billion mark in funding secured from the EU's Framework Programme for Research and Innovation - Horizon Europe. With a national target of €1.5bn (1.6%) of Horizon Europe's €95.5bn budget from 2021-2027, Ireland is firmly on track to meet and likely exceed the target set in Impact 2030. To date, Irish organisations have been awarded €1.02 billion, which equates to 2.09% of the €49 billion awarded so far, showing that Ireland is tracking ahead of its target. This funding to Irish Higher Education Institutions, research organisations and companies facilitates excellent and impactful research and innovation as well as important transnational collaboration with stakeholders across the European Union and beyond. Core and competitive funding provided by the Higher Education Authority and Research Ireland, respectively, are key enablers of success for Irish researchers and innovators in Horizon Europe. Irish institutions are supported by the Horizon Europe National Support Network, comprised of 32 National Contact Points and National Delegates drawn from 10 Irish research and innovation-active agencies. This network of experts assists researchers and innovators develop proposals to secure competitive awards and increase Ireland's research and innovation footprint on a European and global scale. Speaking today, Minister Lawless said: "Reaching €1 billion in Horizon Europe funding is a significant achievement for Ireland and a clear endorsement of the world-class talent within our research and innovation community. This achievement demonstrates that Ireland is not just competing but is a strong innovator on the European stage. "Irish researchers' work includes the ongoing development of a new type of bio-based artificial lung to support patients as they await transplant and a project that looked at ways to reduce underwater radiated noise to help protect the marine life so vital to our island. "Horizon Europe funding facilitates individual research excellence and also transnational collaboration with researchers and innovators across Europe and beyond. "I highlight the importance of the support of the National Support Network and encourage our research and innovation stakeholders to continue to build on their success - driving discovery, fostering innovation, and ensuring that research delivers real benefits for society, the economy, and our shared future in Europe." Enterprise Ireland, which leads the Horizon Europe National Support Network, praised the achievement as a reflection of Ireland's strategic investment in innovation and international partnerships. Jenny Melia, CEO, Enterprise Ireland, added: "Enterprise Ireland welcomes this milestone achievement, bringing Ireland's accumulated funding approvals to €1bn since the introduction of the Horizon Europe programme in 2021, and clearly reinforces the level of innovation and ingenuity emerging from our small open economy. Ireland's overall success in the Horizon Europe programme, supported by Enterprise Ireland in our National Contact Point capacity, shines a spotlight on the innovation and capability of our companies to compete on a global level, and this funding provides the critical support required to enable these innovative companies to develop and scale their businesses." More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we c...

The Switch, a leading supplier of permanent magnet shaft generators, celebrates its 500th shaft generator order. This milestone underscores the company's pivotal role in supporting the maritime industry's transition to cleaner, more efficient shipping. "Reaching 500 orders is a milestone not just for The Switch, but for the shipping industry as a whole," said Jussi Puranen, Product Line Director for Electric Machines. "Every shaft generator we deliver directly reduces CO? emissions, helping shipowners cut fuel consumption and comply with tightening environmental regulations. This number reflects both our customers' commitment to sustainability and our team's dedication to cost-effective, tailor-made engineering. Considering that we delivered our first shaft generator only ten years ago, it also shows how fast the green transition in shipping is taking place." Reducing CO2 emissions with permanent magnet shaft generators Shaft generators harness the main engine's power to produce electricity for a vessel's onboard systems, significantly reducing reliance on auxiliary diesel generators that run with lower fuel efficiency. Permanent magnet shaft generators improve fuel efficiency and cut greenhouse gas emissions, making them a key technology toward meeting the International Maritime Organization's (IMO's) target of achieving net-zero emissions by around 2050. Permanent magnet shaft generators are estimated to cut carbon emissions compared to conventional shaft generators with electric excitation by over 100,000 metric tons per year - equivalent to the emissions of over 22,000 passenger cars with internal combustion engines. The savings are even greater compared to conventional genset-based systems - over 600,000 metric tons of CO2 annually, equal to the carbon emissions of about 140,000 passenger cars. Over 300 The Switch permanent magnet shaft generators are already fully operational, serving a diverse fleet of container ships, gas carriers, bulk carriers, tankers and car carriers. These have accumulated more than 5 million operating hours with no vessel downtime due to failures. The Switch invests in ongoing research and development to further improve the efficiency and reliability of its solutions so that shipowners stay ahead of evolving environmental standards. "Field-proven technologies like permanent magnet shaft generators are vital stepping stones as the industry navigates toward a net-zero future," added Miika Reinikka, CEO of The Switch. "We are proud to help our end customers sail more sustainably and look forward to celebrating the next 500 deliveries." See more breaking stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Students across Ireland saved the equivalent of 1.5 million AA batteries from landfill last school year - the weight of close to four school buses - with one small school collecting nearly 2,000 AA batteries per person. Cloonfour National School in Roscommon, with just 40 pupils, proved that even the smallest schools can make a massive impact as they rallied their families and community to collect used batteries for recycling and win their category in the national WEEE Ireland Schools Battery Recycling Competition. Other winning schools hailed from Galway, Carlow, Roscommon, Waterford and Donegal, with each awarded a €2,000 sports voucher for their efforts. This year's competition launches as the new EU Batteries Regulation come into full effect, bringing higher waste battery collection, recycling and recovery targets. WEEE Ireland is calling on schools, families, and communities nationwide to get involved by gathering used batteries for recycling and help Ireland meet these ambitious goals - while supporting environmental protection and the programme's charity partner LauraLynn Ireland's Children's Hospice. The competition is open to all primary and secondary schools in WEEE Ireland's battery recycling counties that collect at least 10 full 5kg battery boxes. "The new EU Batteries Regulation raises the bar for all of us, and schools across Ireland are proving they are ready to meet that challenge," said Elizabeth O'Reilly, Head of Environmental Compliance at WEEE Ireland. "The incredible efforts of students, teachers, families and local communities will help ensure we meet the minimum recovery targets for materials like cobalt, copper, lead, lithium, and nickel. This ensures these materials are recaptured for use again in manufacturing, as part of a more sustainable and circular battery economy. "Every year we see how collective action can achieve real results - and even the smallest schools, like Cloonfour National School, can make an outsized contribution." Expressing her gratitude, Kerry McLaverty, CEO of LauraLynn said: "The funds we have received from WEEE Ireland as a result of battery recycling programme over the last 14 years of this partnership have had such a positive impact on the children and families who avail of LauraLynn's specialised care and supports all across Ireland. "This year's donation brings the total fundraising to an incredible €610,000. LauraLynn would also like to say a huge thank you WEEE Ireland for the support across this campaign over the last number of years and to everyone who took the time to recycle their batteries. "It may seem like something small, but for the children and families who rely on LauraLynn, and for the environment, it is huge and very impactful." Schools can find more information and order free WEEE Ireland Blue Battery Boxes at www.weeeireland.ie. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

The broadband market in Ireland is now flooded with providers all offering a myriad of deals. We know it's hard to find the perfect deal that suits your needs, but we're here to help. We've teamed up with Switcher.ie, the free and impartial price comparison and switching service, to find the best broadband deals available every month. Check back regularly to stay informed of the latest deals and offers, and visit the Switcher.ie website to order one of these great packages. Best Broadband Deals Looking for a good deal on broadband? Check out Virgin Media's 500Mb Broadband plan. For just €35 per month for the first year, you'll get unlimited broadband with speeds of up to 500Mb. Plus, sign up before September 30th and get €100 off your Virgin Media broadband bill. With eir's Unlimited Broadband and Talk plan, priced at €29.99 per month for 12 months, you'll get unlimited broadband with speeds of up to 100Mb with unlimited off-peak local & national calls. eir also offer this plan with speeds of up to 500Mb with their Fibre Broadband and Talk plan. Also priced at €29.99 per month for 12 months. For just €30 per month for the first year, Pure Telecom's Purely Broadband offers unlimited broadband with speeds of up to 100Mb, ideal for surfing, gaming or streaming. Also, you can enjoy great value over the long term with Pure Telecom with a low out-of-contract monthly cost and no contractual annual price increase. Looking for something faster? Sign up to Sky's Ultrafast Max and get unlimited broadband with speeds of up to 1Gb for €35 per month for the first year. Interested in bundling broadband and TV? Virgin Media 500Mb Broadband with Basic TV plan includes unlimited broadband with speeds of up to 500Mb, and a mix of over 30 TV channels, all for €45 per month for 12 months. Plus, sign up before September 30th and get €100 off your Virgin Media broadband bill. If you're after a greater variety of TV channels, take a look at Virgin Media's 500Mb Broadband with Loaded TV plan. For €50 per month for 12 months, you'll get unlimited broadband with speeds of up to 500Mb, and over 100 TV channels. Sign up exclusively via Switcher.ie before September 30th, and get €100 off your Virgin Media broadband bill. (If you've come across this article after some of these deals may have expired, check out our main Broadband Deals category page to find the latest offers) More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

A leading pensions expert is warning that the Government's auto-enrolment campaign for pensions - due to begin on January 1st - does not equip businesses with the practical information employers need to choose between auto-enrolment and existing pension options available. Feargal McKenna, co-founder of Pensions Awareness Week, which takes place from September 29th to October 3rd, and Head of Corporate at Moneycube.ie, was speaking to over 100 businesses at a Breakfast Briefing for Wicklow's business community this morning, which was also addressed by Tánaiste Simon Harris. The free event, at The GRID in Greystones, was organised by Wicklow's business networking group, East Wicklow Business Network (WicklowBusiness.ie) and the Local Enterprise Office Wicklow. Feargal McKenna unveiled a new Auto-Enrolment Calculator developed by Moneycube.ie specifically for employers and hosted on the Pensions Awareness Week website - www.pensionsawarenessweek.ie. The calculator - which is free to use - is designed to give Irish employers instant clarity about the true cost of auto-enrolment on their payroll and the impact on employees' take-home pay. It also allows employers to compare these costs with alternative pension arrangements, so they can make informed decisions before the scheme begins. Unlike most existing auto-enrolment calculators, which focus only on employees, Moneycube.ie's tool is built for employers, who ultimately decide whether to default into auto-enrolment or take action to establish an alternative scheme. The calculator is easy to use, with just six steps providing business owners, HR managers or finance teams with the information they need to decide whether to prepare their organisations for auto-enrolment or explore alternative options. Employers enter a few simple details about their workforce - such as employee numbers, salary levels, and contribution rates. The calculator instantly shows the total payroll cost under auto-enrolment, how much employees' net pay will fall, and the potential advantages of alternative options. Feargal McKenna, Head of Corporate at Moneycube.ie, says: "If auto-enrolment starts on January 1st, about 800,000 employees will see a reduction in net take-home pay, but employers still have time to choose a structure that can avoid that and possibly deliver better outcomes. "Our employers' calculator gives business owners, HR and finance teams instant, side-by-side numbers: the payroll cost under auto-enrolment over a 10-year period and how that compares with a well-designed occupational pension. Defaulting into auto-enrolment can disadvantage higher-rate taxpayers and limit retirement choices. The Government has released information about their Auto-Enrolment scheme, but it has fallen short in providing a straightforward tool to help people understand the options. Moneycube.ie's calculator fills that gap while supporting the goal of getting Ireland saving for retirement - something that is core to the reason we set up Pensions Awareness Week. "We built this calculator because employers need an instant picture from two, often opposing, perspectives: the finance team, focused on controlling costs, and HR, focused on benefits, recruitment and retention. Government may have cried wolf in the past, but businesses no longer have the luxury of waiting. If pension contributions aren't flowing through payroll by December, the gift under the tree this year - whether you asked for it or not - will be auto-enrolment… and it doesn't come with batteries." More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help prom...

A global engineering design consultancy with expertise in data centres and complex infrastructure projects is set to create 60 new high-tech engineering jobs in Dublin. Black & White Engineering recently completed the acquisition of Homan O'Brien, one of Ireland's longest-established consulting engineering firms. The deal marks Black & White's first European acquisition and a significant investment in the Irish market. Homan O'Brien traces its roots back more than 65 years through the merger of Robert Jacob and Partners (founded in 1955) and Seamus Homan Associates (founded in 1978). It has built a strong reputation across healthcare, education, laboratories, commercial, residential and industrial sectors, in addition to its expertise in data centres. Simon O'Brien, Country Director, Ireland at Black & White Engineering, said: "We're currently 32 people in Dublin and over the next three years we plan to grow the team to around 90. That's 60 new high-tech engineering jobs and a real investment in Irish talent and skills. For our clients, it means continuity and stability with the same level of service we've always provided, while giving us the scale and support of a global network." The expansion forms a key part of Black & White's European growth strategy, supported by its investment partners Waterland. Choosing Dublin for the company's first European acquisition reflects both the city's importance as a base for multinational clients and the depth of engineering expertise available in Ireland. With Waterland's backing, Black & White is accelerating its international growth and building the scale needed to support clients across increasingly complex global projects. Mick Cairns, CEO and Founder of Black & White Engineering, said: "Dublin is a strategic hub for many of our global clients and having a strong presence here means we can be closer to them while creating significant new opportunities for engineers in Ireland. This is an exciting step in our growth journey, and we're delighted to invest in the future of the Irish engineering sector." Black & White Engineering now operates across more than 18 cities worldwide with a team of over 1,000 people. The company has seen rapid growth in recent years, achieving a 500% increase in size since 2020 and is recognised across industry for its technical excellence, data centre expertise and sustainable design solutions. Steven Horn, Managing Director, Europe at Black & White Engineering, added: "Creating 60 new high-tech engineering roles in Dublin is a major step in building our European capability. These jobs represent real opportunities for talented engineers in Ireland to work on projects that have both a local and international impact. Expanding the team in Dublin also strengthens our ability to support clients across Europe with the depth of expertise and resources they need." More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

South East Technological University (SETU) Office of Research, Innovation & Impact has announced the winners of its inaugural Impact Case Study Competition, an initiative designed to showcase the profound positive societal impact of SETU research. The competition was led by Dr Saoirse Cummins, SETU's Engaged Research and Impact Officer. With expert support from trainer Saskia Walcott of Walcott Communications, participants took part in tailored workshops and one-to-one training sessions to enhance their ability to evidence and communicate their research impact to wider society. A total of 18 case studies were submitted, each demonstrating how SETU research is addressing challenges, supporting communities, influencing policy, and working in partnership with industry and regional stakeholders. Impact Case Study Competition Winners Overall winner: 'The Men on the Move Effect: Building Healthier Communities,' written by Dr Paula Carroll (€500 research or travel grant) Runners-up: 'Embedding Unemployment Experiences in Public Employment Services Policy and Practice,' written by Dr Aisling Tuite and 'Pioneering PPIE in Ocular Therapeutics: A Case Study in Translational Engagement,' by Tess Ames (each receiving a €300 research or travel grant) Early Career Researcher category winner: 'Co-Designing for Change: A Contextualised Outreach Initiative to Increase Female Participation in Computer Science,' written by Fiona Redmond (€300 research or travel grant) Regional Stakeholder Engagement category winner: 'Strengthening Recovery and Inclusion Through Co-Produced Online Communities,' written by Susan Barnes (€300 research or travel grant) Speaking about the competition, Dr Saoirse Cummins said, "The breadth and depth of research impact at SETU is inspiring. These case studies highlight how our researchers are not only advancing knowledge but also making a tangible difference to people's lives, communities, and enterprises across the region, and beyond." Prof Marie Claire Van Hout, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact at SETU, added, "At SETU, we are committed to ensuring our research delivers real benefits for society and for the region we serve. The Impact Case Study Competition has brought this to life by capturing examples of how our researchers are driving innovation, informing policy, and working with communities and businesses to create lasting change." The competition, facilitated by TU RISE funding, reflects SETU's strong commitment to research that matters - research that is connected, collaborative, and focused on creating real-world benefits. The Impact Case Studies are now available to read on the new dedicated research impact webpage on the SETU website, offering a powerful insight into how SETU research is shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for the South-East region and beyond. Link to webpage here: https://www.setu.ie/research-innovation/our-research-impact The Impact Case Study Competition was made possible thanks to funding from TU RISE (TU Research and Innovation Supporting Enterprise), which is co-financed by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27 and the Northern & Western Regional Programme 2021-27. TU RISE is managed by the Higher Education Authority of Ireland and the Southern Regional Assembly. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us...

Culture Night now in its twentieth year, is an annual public event taking place all over Ireland that celebrates the richness and diversity of culture in Ireland today. Esri Ireland, the market leader in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), has announced that The Arts Council has used Esri's technology to create a digital map of events happening around Ireland for Culture Night 2025. The interactive, easy-to-use map will chart your cultural course and help you to navigate over 1,800 free events taking place across the island of Ireland. From music, theatre, and comedy to poetry readings, walking tours, and puppet workshops, there is something for all ages and interests on the 2025 programme. The Culture Night digital map allows you to search the 1700 events taking place tonight by county, location, venue, and event name. It also allows you to search by start time, age suitability, and accessibility. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Blue Earth Ventures, the investment arm of Blue Earth, has launched the BE100 Fund supported by venture capital firm Haatch. The fund has already secured its first £500,000 from Blue Earth's founders and a network of exited founders turned angel investors. With a raise now targeting £1-2 million, it will deploy capital directly into the winners of Blue Earth's flagship BE100 competition, offering investors exclusive access to high-growth ventures. Blue Earth Ventures launch new investment fund Now in its fifth year, BE100 identifies and champions 100 early-stage businesses annually, with three category winners (Start, Grow, Scale) announced at the Blue Earth Summit. To date, Blue Earth has supported 55+ ventures, helping raise £155 million and unlocking hundreds of commercial opportunities. The BE100 Fund builds on this track record by investing directly into winners, providing capital and exclusive access to Blue Earth's network of investors, corporates, and partners. Guy Hayler, Co-Founder of Blue Earth and Ventures Lead, said: "The BE100 Fund is a major step forward for Blue Earth. Our mission is to transform the way the world works by finding and funding business solutions that positively disrupt their industries. Founders solving real problems create exciting opportunities not just for impact, but also for investors. With Haatch, we're combining our ecosystem with proven venture expertise to deliver both growth and returns." Jonathan Keeling, Partner at Haatch, added: "Businesses driving system change represent some of the strongest commercial opportunities in the market. The BE100 Fund combines Blue Earth's powerful ecosystem with Haatch's investment expertise to back those ventures and accelerate their success." Blue Earth Ventures supports the growth of businesses positively disrupting their industries through its Ventures membership, BE100 competition, and flagship events - Blue Earth Summit and Blue Earth Forum. Haatch Haatch is a market-leading early stage Venture Capital investor, who invests in the future of enterprise. To date, they have raised over £89m across 150+ portfolio companies, resulting in seven exits, with four of these in 2025 alone. Haatch also invests £27m on behalf of the British Business Bank ("BBB"), and this money is co-invested alongside every Haatch See more breaking stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

A two-day conference which will examine cutting-edge technology, best practice and leadership in Maintenance, Reliability and Asset Management will be held in Kilkenny later this month. The conference will bring together over 35 exhibitors and 250 leaders from the pharmaceutical, biotech, medical device, life science, manufacturing, aerospace, industrial engineering and energy sectors. 'Reliability Ireland' takes place at the Lyrath Hotel, Kilkenny on Tuesday, September 23rd and Wednesday, September 24th. The event is designed for professionals who ensure the reliability and performance of systems, machinery, and infrastructure, as well as those shaping organisational strategy. It brings together individuals aligning asset management initiatives with broader business goals including strategy and sustainability objectives. The event will feature 18 Irish and International keynote and industry speakers, including former Ireland and Lions Rugby Captain Brian O'Driscoll; Aeronautical Engineer and STEM Advocate, Dr Norah Patten; The Mental Fitness Coach, Neil O'Brien of SkillStack; Digital Transformation and AI Specialist Kevin Rad; RCM expert Nancy Regan; with industry leaders and experts from Eli Lilly, Boston Scientific, Johnson & Johnson, Digital Manufacturing Ireland, ASHRAE and many more. The Mental Fitness Coach, Neil O'Brien of Skillstack, will be highlighting the importance of getting the basics in business right. He said: "A lot of my clients are in elite sports and I always tell them that those who achieve the best results are those who are getting the basics right and this advice can be applied to any business. Whether it's customer service, sales or leadership, a company needs to ensure that these are being done better than the competition to get ahead." Another area to be explored is AI-driven strategies in business. Digital Transformation and AI Specialist Kevin Rad said: "Companies using AI-driven strategies are already seeing a reduction of 50% in unplanned maintenance downtime and their maintenance costs have decreased by a quarter. Businesses that embrace these tools are positioning themselves ahead of the curve in efficiency, reliability, and asset performance." Bernard Yore, CEO of ESS Group, which organises the event, describes Reliability Ireland as more than a conference and exhibition. He said, "It is a foundational platform for all things reliability, maintenance and asset management. It is essential for engineers and asset management professionals looking to lead through technology, best practices and leadership." Reliability Ireland is a biennial event designed by industry, for industry and was established in 2016. Registration closes on Thursday, September 18th. For more information or to register, visit https://reliabilityireland.ie/. The key themes of Reliability Ireland 2025 are: Strategy, Leadership and Workforce Development AI, Next-Gen Technology and Digital Transformation Benchmarking, Best Practice and Data-Driven Insights Sustainability, ESG and Future-Proofing Assets Condition Monitoring and Predictive Analytics More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

The total amount of grid-scale solar energy produced in 2024 was surpassed five months early in July of this year, EirGrid has confirmed. Official metered data shows that by the end of July this year, 753 Gigawatt hours (GWh) of solar energy had been supplied on the grid, up from a total of 659 GWh for the whole of 2024. EirGrid's National Control Centre carries out the complex task of balancing the supply of solar energy alongside conventional generation sources and other renewable resources such as wind power to ensure that demand can be met. The new yearly record comes against the backdrop of a series of solar activity peak records set over the course of the summer, with the highest level of 798 Megawatts (MW) recorded at 3 pm on Wednesday, 9 July. Megawatt (MW) values provide snapshots of electricity demand at a particular moment in time, whereas Gigawatt Hours (GWh) reflects electricity use over a longer period. Meanwhile, the latest provisional data from EirGrid shows that 35% of electricity came from renewables in August. Overall, 27% of electricity in August came from wind, with 5% coming from solar. Gas was the single largest source of electricity generation for the month at 45%, with 19% coming from imports. Overall electricity system demand stood at 2,704 GWh for August, down slightly from July. Commenting on the data, Diarmaid Gillespie, Director of System Operations at EirGrid, said: "While the overall percentage for solar power remains relatively small compared to some other sources of generation, its strong growth has marked an evolution in Ireland's fuel mix. This has been driven by progress in connecting large-scale solar energy to the national electricity grid in recent years." More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland's electricity grid, has awarded community groups and not-for-profit organisations near the Celtic Interconnector project a total of €821,265.50. The funding, associated with the sub-sea cable project which will link the electricity grids of Ireland and France, will see 53 local community groups and projects benefit. This is the second of three phases of funding available to communities in the project area, with the total fund amounting to €2.4million. This latest phase of funding covers three activity streams, with €240,000 allocated through the community stream, €236,437.50 via the sustainability stream and €344,828 for projects covering biodiversity initiatives, with the biodiversity figure including an additional amount of funding due to an underspend in biodiversity projects in the first phase. Speaking about the fund,?EirGrid's Head of Public Engagement, Sinead Dooley, said:?"This fund was established to support east Cork communities to develop projects and initiatives that will leave a lasting positive legacy long after the Celtic Interconnector project is delivered. This latest phase will continue to support the huge efforts of community groups in developing positive spaces for all ages, supporting healthy initiatives and providing an important boost to energy and biodiversity projects. We are once again proud to support these efforts and look forward to seeing what can be achieved through this fund." The Celtic Interconnector Community Benefit Fund was established by EirGrid to recognise the important part local communities play in the development of the electricity grid, the impact works can have on communities, and to ensure funds benefit groups and projects in these areas. For a list of the successful groups and projects, visit www.eirgrid.ie/celticinterconnector#CBF More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

In a world of scarce talent and shifting work, one conference dares to reimagine how we cast our teams. On Friday, 5 September 2025, Starcircle, the hiring platform that helps companies solve hiring challenges with AI and on-demand expertise, premieres Supernova 2025: Hiring at the Movies at The Cameo Cinema, The Montenotte Hotel, Cork. The latest SOLAS survey revealed 47% of hard-to-fill roles were rated "very" or "too" difficult, and 64% required salary increases to seal the deal. Inspired by these real events, Supernova is flipping the script, taking hiring teams from today's recruiting horror story to a rom-com where they fall back in love with talent acquisition. Under the theme "Hiring at the Movies," Supernova 2025 connects the craft of film casting with the future of talent acquisition. Professionals from Eli Lilly, Workhuman, OpenText and many others, will gather to discuss what's next for hiring and the nature of work, along with real steps leaders can take now. The star-studded line-up includes two of Ireland's best-known casting directors, Maureen Hughes and Louise Kiely. They will unpack the craft of spotting potential, building chemistry, and making brave choices, all critical skills for any hiring team. They're joined by keynote speaker Kevin Wheeler, whose vision of a tech-powered future may sound stranger than fiction, but is quickly becoming a reality. The machines haven't taken over just yet though, as Larry Kelly explores the power of human imagination at work and why creativity is a decisive advantage in an AI-shaped future. "Supernova is where we zoom out to see what's coming and zoom in on what to do on Monday," said James Galvin, CEO at Starcircle. "Linking hiring to the world of film makes it simple; great outcomes start with a strong vision, a bold brief, and the imagination to see talent others miss." Galvin continues, "Supernova blends big-picture thinking with practical guidance. Since our first conference in 2022, we've brought together leading experts from around the world to share their playbooks and help organisations navigate the ever-changing landscape. This year promises to be our best event yet, and you won't find a talent event like this anywhere else in the world." Supernova is invite-only. For more information and to register your interest, visit here or contact events@starcircle.com See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Advancing Innovation in Manufacturing (AIM) Centre has announced the launch of its new AI Accelerator Programme for Manufacturing Companies, a ten-week hybrid initiative designed to help businesses across Ireland understand, adopt, and scale artificial intelligence effectively. For many manufacturers, the hardest part of AI adoption is knowing where to begin. AIM's new Accelerator helps turn uncertainty into action - guiding companies toward the most valuable use cases for their operations. Starting on 1st October 2025, applications are now open to manufacturing companies of all sizes and sub-sectors. The programme is delivered by the National AI Studio for Manufacturing at AIM Centre, co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Northern and Western Regional Programme 2021- 27. Supporting AI Adoption in Irish Manufacturing The AI Accelerator provides a structured pathway from AI strategy to deployment, enabling participating companies to build a working demonstrator tailored to their specific needs. The programme blends online delivery with in-person events, including access to Ireland's National AI Studio for Manufacturing. Over the ten weeks (one day per week) participants will gain: • A working AI demonstrator aligned with their operations, paired with a structured use case brief to support future deployment. • Guidance on integrating AI within existing ERP and data systems. • Access to industry-specific use cases, demos, and prototypes, highlighting tangible opportunities for business transformation. • Expert guidance on governance, risk, and compliance - including EU AI Act requirements. • Insights into scaling AI across operations. AIM Centre advises teams of two people attend from each company, ensuring both strategic and technical perspectives are represented. Accreditation and Funding Support The programme is CPD-accredited by Engineers Ireland, recognising its value in professional development. To support participation, SMEs can access up to 80% funding, while larger companies can also avail of significant funding support. This ensures that businesses of all sizes can take advantage of the opportunity to future-proof their operations with AI. AIM-ing for Real Results "Irish manufacturing is at a pivotal moment in its digital transformation journey. Through this programme, we aim to demystify AI and give companies the tools, confidence, and practical outcomes they need to adopt it responsibly and at scale and with measurable business impact" - David Bermingham, Director of AI, AIM Centre. How to Apply Applications are open now. To find out more or register your interest, visit: www.aimcentre.ie/ai-accelerator-programme More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

eBay, Inc. (Nasdaq: EBAY), a global commerce leader that connects millions of buyers and sellers around the world, today celebrates three decades of ecommerce success. Since its founding in 1995, eBay has shaped the way enthusiasts participate in the circular economy, empowering entrepreneurs and creating economic opportunity for millions. "eBay's 30th anniversary is an important milestone we share with our global community of buyers and sellers, who've been with us every step of the way," said Jamie Iannone, Chief Executive Officer at eBay. "Looking ahead, we'll continue to leverage innovation and AI to make eBay simpler and more trusted, while building a stronger marketplace for the decades to come." To mark its 30th anniversary milestone, eBay is hosting a series of special events in New York City to honour the buyers and sellers who have shaped its journey since 1995. Celebration at Nasdaq: Today, eBay CEO Jamie Iannone and company executives will ring the opening bell at the Nasdaq MarketSite. The moment reflects eBay's impact on global commerce and its continued innovation designed to better serve small businesses, entrepreneurs and enthusiasts around the world. Immersive '95 Shop: Complementing the ceremony, eBay is launching an immersive retail experience - the '95 Shop - a tribute to the iconic trends and items from its founding year. The activation is where 90s nostalgia meets three decades of ecommerce innovation. It features a "Greatest Hits" auction across Fashion, Collectibles, and Motors, a series of eBay Lives from leading sellers, and more immersive experiences. Located at 45 Grand St. in New York City, the shop will open on Sept. 4 for one day only. AI-Powered Innovation At Scale eBay's global scale, category expertise, and unparalleled breadth of inventory enable the company to deliver personalised, scalable, and magical experiences for its customers worldwide. By combining sought-after inventory in focus categories, such as Collectibles, Fashion, and Motors, with innovative tools and strategies, eBay continues to expand its role as a trusted marketplace for sellers and buyers. AI helps in this mission by enhancing discovery, trust, and engagement: to date, eBay has enabled more than 10 million sellers to generate well over 200 million listings with AI tools. Internally, AI-powered services help streamline workflows, unlock deeper insights, and foster creativity, ultimately allowing employees to focus on higher-value activities. Beyond AI, eBay is reimagining ecommerce through innovations like eBay Live, a dynamic shopping experience that continues to scale with strong seller adoption and growing buyer engagement. Together, these initiatives drive eBay's ability to build on its category strengths, technological capabilities, and community of sellers to shape the future of ecommerce. From vintage collectibles and pre-loved fashion to one-of-a-kind treasures, eBay has built one of the most dynamic and trusted marketplaces in the world, enabling customers all over the world to buy and sell with ease. As the company looks to the future, it remains committed to building communities, harnessing new technologies and reinventing the future of ecommerce. For a timeline of eBay's historical moments, visit Our History. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

The Irish Management Institute (IMI) today announced the launch of the 2025 National Leadership Conference (NLC), taking place on Thursday, October 2nd at IMI's Sandyford campus, which will bring together Ireland's top business leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities of leading organisations in an era of heightened volatility and disruption. This year's NLC will focus on helping leaders move from insight to impact, develop key capabilities to navigate uncertainty, and position their organisations for long-term success. Former Editor-in-chief of the Economist, Bill Emmott, is to address the 2025 Irish Management Institute (IMI) National Leadership Conference on the critical role of leadership in driving transformation in an era of heightened volatility and disruption. As the AI transformation accelerates, speakers will offer insights on how decision makers can successfully harness the power of the technology in their business; developing an organisational culture of innovation that embraces change; and cultivating and leading high-performance teams. Keynote speakers at the event include Dómhnal Slattery, former CEO of Avolon, and Enda O'Coineen, Group CEO of the Business Post Group. Other speakers at the conference include Jennifer Melia, CEO of Enterprise Ireland, Alice Mansergh, CEO at Tourism Ireland, Joe Heneghan, CEO at Revolut Europe, and Emma Redmond, General Counsel & Head of OpenAI Ireland. Commenting on the event launch, Shane O'Sullivan, CEO of the IMI, said: "Irish business leaders are navigating a highly complex environment, shaped by global volatility, a tightening domestic economy, and the accelerating pace of technological change. In this climate, it's all too easy to become consumed by immediate pressures and lose sight of the bigger picture. But long-term success depends on leaders keeping their focus on future growth, building the capabilities to adapt, and seizing opportunities even in uncertain times. "At IMI, we see that many leaders already have the insights - the real challenge lies in turning those insights into tangible impact. The National Leadership Conference is an important forum bringing together Ireland's leadership community that can help to forge the capabilities for current and future success. IMI research shows that while most leaders are aware of the key challenges facing their organisation, many are finding it difficult to identify and put in place the capabilities and strategies to overcome these obstacles and drive growth. "With an impressive line-up of national and international industry leaders, this year's conference will give Ireland's decision makers the tools to sharpen their capabilities, navigate uncertainty with confidence, and unlock future growth." For more information and to register for the National Leadership Conference, visit: https://www.imi.ie/events/national-leadership-conference-nlc-2/ More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

The Walton Institute at South East Technological University (SETU) is inviting businesses to participate in an exciting, free webinar, 'Unlock Innovation with SETU,' on Wednesday, 10 September 2025, at 12:00 p.m. This one-hour online event is designed to showcase how companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), can partner with SETU's world-class research and development centres to drive growth, boost competitiveness, and accelerate innovation. SETU is home to four of Enterprise Ireland's Technology Gateways, each offering specialised expertise and state-of-the-art facilities: SEAM (Advanced Manufacturing), PMBRC (Pharmaceutical & Molecular Biology), Design+ (Product Design), and the ICS Technology Gateway at Walton Institute (Digital and Communications Technologies). During the webinar, speakers will share insights into emerging trends, breakthrough innovations, and real-world applications relevant to industries across the region. The webinar will begin with a welcome from Dr James O'Sullivan, Head of Commercialisation at SETU, who will provide an overview of SETU's industry engagement model. He will be followed by short presentations from experts, including Dr Ramesh Raghavendra on advanced manufacturing, Liam Fitzgerald on digital transformation, Ailish Delaney on product and industrial design, and Dr Niall O'Reilly on the latest developments in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. The session will conclude with a live panel discussion and audience Q&A, offering participants a valuable opportunity to connect directly with Gateways and explore how SETU can support their innovation goals. This webinar is particularly relevant to business owners, technical managers, start-ups, scale-ups, and innovation teams interested in collaborating with academic research centres to develop new products, processes, or services. Whether you're starting out or scaling up, the event will provide clear, practical guidance on accessing funding, research support, and advanced infrastructure through SETU's Technology Gateways. Organised by the Walton Institute in partnership with Waterford Chamber of Commerce and Toys4Engineers, this event reflects SETU's continued commitment to driving regional innovation and supporting enterprise through collaboration. Webinar Details Title: Unlock Innovation with SETU, Connecting regional business with world-class expertise Date: Wednesday, 10 September 2025 Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Location: Online (Zoom) Cost: Free Registration: Register now on Eventbrite For more information on SETU's Technology Gateways and how your business can get involved, visit www.waltoninstitute.ie or contact the team directly at info@waltoninstitute.ie. Don't miss this chance to explore how collaborative innovation with SETU can unlock your business's potential. The four Technology Gateways are part of the Enterprise Ireland Technology Gateway Network, co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

In 2019 I went down to Galway to do a podcast with Black Pug Studio. Six years have passed since that podcast and Tony Moreno ,and Julien Garrigues co-founders of Black Pug Studio contacted me about doing a follow up podcast. So, I did the follow up podcast via Zoom and we had an interesting chat. The podcast is being published in 2 parts. Tony and Julien recap on what they do, Pocket Gamer, Unreal Engine 5, modding, AI, Branding and more. More about Black Pug Studio: Black Pug Studio is a dynamic creative agency based in Galway, specialising in first-class web design, unique branding solutions, innovative digital designs, and proficient software and web development. They also make awesome video games too. See more podcasts here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Adyen, the global financial technology platform of choice for leading businesses, has announced a joint partnership with Prommt, the premium pay by link solution trusted by top brands in hospitality, travel, luxury retail, and professional services. With both companies holding a leading market position in hospitality, this collaboration enables Adyen to deliver a deeply integrated, seamless payment experience for hotels using Oracle OPERA (v5 and Cloud), streamlining operations, reducing fraud, and elevating the guest payment journey. Prommt's market-leading platform enables hotels to request and collect secure, efficient and premium branded remote payments. It supports features like scheduled sends, automated reminders (SMS/email), file attachments, reporting, and refund management. With a deep integration to Oracle OPERA, the platform automates payment workflows, updates the guest folio in real time and triggers email alerts on successful payments. Trusted by the world's finest hotels, Prommt holds an all five-star rating on the Oracle Cloud Marketplace. The partnership has already made a strong impact in the market, marked by a successful win with Urban Hive, a vibrant hotel brand under Hively Hospitality, a group that owns and franchises hotels across multiple countries. The combined solution is helping Urban Hive transform its payment workflows and deliver a more secure and seamless guest experience. "We are proud to partner with Prommt to enhance the payment experience for our hospitality clients," said Nicole Olbe, Managing Director UK at Adyen. "Prommt's deep integration with Oracle OPERA and its innovative approach to remote payments, eliminates the need for manual transaction processing and ensures Opera is updated in real time, helping hotels improve efficiency, security, and guest satisfaction." Nicole Olbe added: "In today's hospitality landscape, delivering a smooth and secure payment experience is essential to building guest trust and driving loyalty. Partnering with Prommt brings together two complementary strengths, innovation in remote payments and deep expertise in unified commerce to deliver real impact for hotels. Together, we're empowering businesses to elevate the guest experience while driving operational efficiency." The partnership is set to benefit not only the hospitality sector, but also industries like luxury retail, automotive, professional services, and builders merchants - where Prommt is increasingly being used to streamline B2B and remote payment flows. "We are delighted to partner with an industry leader like Adyen," said Donal McGuinness, CEO at Prommt. "This partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to innovating the payment experience for hospitality and other business sectors around the world, delivering a faster, safer and more branded payment journey that supports both operational excellence and revenue growth." See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

At National College of Ireland, we are dedicated to highlighting alternative entry routes into third level education. Students who have just received their Leaving Certificate results should be aware that the Available Places facility opens August 28th, 2025 What is Available Places? Available Places is a facility that highlights places that are still available on selected programmes for CAO Applicants. This means you can choose to study at NCI in September! There are a number of courses currently available on the Available Places facility, which can be viewed on our Available Places Courses page. Students interested in exploring NCI's Available Places options can explore areas of marketing, childhood education and care, as well as business and data science. How does Available Places benefit students? The Leaving Certificate year can be an uncertain time for many students. When all the stress of the exams has ended, some students may feel that they did not put a course down on their CAO choices that they should have, or perhaps when they have a better gauge of how they feel they did, they may wish they had have put some more choices down. When the Available Places facility opens, students have another opportunity to expand their CAO options or apply for courses they did not put down in the first place. For students who maybe did not get the exact results they were hoping for, the Available Places facility displays course options that may suit them. Regardless of how things played out on results day, the Available Places facility gives all students another opportunity to expand their study options for September. We hope that knowing that there is always another way in gives all students some peace of mind as they make their decisions about what and where they will study this September. You can view the NCI courses in Marketing Practice, Data Science, Business, Computing, and Early Childhood Education and Care that are available on our Available Places Courses page. Why Choose National College of Ireland? At National College of Ireland, we want to not only ensure that you meet your education ambitions, but we also want to ensure that your learning experience supports you personally through the services and supports we offer. Our mission is 'to change lives through education.' Choose your programme, and we will work with you to help you succeed. Located at the heart of the ISFC, NCI is one of Ireland's most innovative third-level institutions, we work closely with industry and professional bodies to ensure courses remain closely aligned to industry needs, and we welcome international students from all over the globe. We strive to continually provide a warm, welcoming, supportive environment so that all students can thrive in their academic, professional, and personal life. We look forward to welcoming new students this September. See more breaking stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Ireland Esports Leagues has officially launched, uniting students, professionals and schools across the island into one dynamic competitive pathway - powered by Nativz Gaming. In a historic first for Irish esports, a single platform will connect grassroots players across schools, universities and into the workplace. Building sustainable, community-first esports experiences across the island. Ireland Esports Collegiate Series enters its 8th edition this October, representing 16 universities and colleges. Company Series pilot tournament successfully concluded in June and returns for Season 1 in September 2025. Collegiate Advisory Committee formed to deepen collaboration with senior university stakeholders. New Schools Series designed to support development of skills needed to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven society. Growing collaborations with Ireland's National Esports Communities will build on existing relationships. "This is a milestone moment for esports on the island of Ireland. For the first time ever, we've built a national structure that connects students, schools, educators and professionals - not just as players, but as future coaches, creators, analysts and leaders," said Kurt Pittman, Founder & CEO of Nativz Gaming. Karl added: "This is the next logical step for a scene that's been steadily growing, and with the people and experience we've brought together, we're best placed to do the job properly. We've delivered the biggest competitions on the island - now we're uniting them to build something even more impactful." Ireland Esports Leagues mission is to build the competitive structure, tell the cultural story and grow the talent pipeline for Irish esports - from schools to society. Ireland Esports Leagues will do this by connecting players across every stage of life, delivering meaningful competitions, developing talent and continuing to grow the ecosystem from the ground up - all while working alongside and supporting Ireland's national esports communities. For more information please visit www.irelandesportsleagues.com and explore the leagues below: Schools Series www.irelandesportsschools.com Collegiate Series www.irelandcollegiate.com Company Series: Office Showdown www.officeshowdown.com Subscribe here to stay up to date, get notified about registration deadlines and access exclusive content as the 2025/26 season unfolds. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

By Selva Ozelli Esq, CPA, Author of Sustainably Investing in Digital Assets Globally President Donald Trump signed the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act (GENIUS Act) into law on July 18th making it the first federal law to regulate stablecoins. Approved by Congress on Thursday, July 17th the bill's passage saw the digital asset industry assets surge past a $4 trillion market capitalization for the first time, with a report by Coincub showing increased digital asset activity in the US. Digital Art & NFTS with Digital Artist Michaël Zancan The US's new digital asset strategy as detailed in the crypto report mentions the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act ("CLARITY Act") which is new legislation designed to clarify the regulatory framework for digital assets, including collectible NFTs (this includes Art NFTs). If and when the CLARITY Act is signed into law, the Act is expected to unlock responsible innovation, protect consumers and cement the US's position as the global leader in the digital asset economy by drawing institutional investors to invest in collectible digital assets. Collectible Memecoins are already included in indexes by FTSE Russell. In her second "NFT Series" exclusive interview for Irish Tech News, Selva Ozelli Esq, CPA, Author of Sustainably Investing in Digital Assets asks digital artist Michael Zancan the reasons why he embraced digital art and NFTs. The first interview in the "NFT Series" is titled Can blockchain help artists? Aleksandra Artamonovskaja. Tell us about your journey to transition from oil painting to digital painting I learned to code at the age of eight, from reference books, writing programs on checkered sheets of paper. I could only type and test them on a computer every two months or so. Since then, I've never stopped making programs - many of them drawing or animating things. I got into the demo scene at fifteen. It would have been pretentious to call it "art" back then, but in hindsight, it was an early form of generative art, though immature and raw. In parallel, I had a lifelong passion for drawing, which grew more serious - and rebellious - when I started graffiti. I transitioned to oil painting later, after having tried nearly every other medium. It felt like the most intimidating one, and I wanted to confront it. Oil painting became my most intimate relationship with the creative act, a counterbalance to my professional life in tech and code, which I considered soulless at the time. I had vowed never to compromise that pure, almost sacred relationship with painting by subjecting it to commercial constraints. Being entirely self-taught - with no art school credentials - I didn't even attempt to conform to the codes of "the art world." So, for more than fifteen years, I lived a dual life: passionate oil painter on one side, creative coding studio director on the other. NFTs changed everything. They became the "right soil" for my art to bloom. I had never entered the art world - but NFTs created a new kind of art world that welcomed people like me. They allowed me to finally reconcile my two practices, developing a style where the painter's eye meets math and algorithms - what I like to call figurative-generative art. Tell us about the theme of your current exhibition regarding trees in gallery Bitforms in New York The exhibition revolves around two main elements: the embroidered tree, and a wall installation I call the Time_Line. Last year, I released Aux Arbres (which means "To the Trees" in French), a generative collection that produced 76,208 unique iterations across more than 43,000 collectors - making it the largest generative art collection ever at the time. It was innovative in the sense that, beyond the vast set of individual artworks, it revealed a "meta-collection" of 965 distinct trees. The idea was to use collective participation to plant an entire digital forest - a metaphor for the unity required among humans in the fight to preserve ...

Advise, the AI-powered data analytics platform provider, has announced its expansion into the UK, fuelled by a recent investment of €1.8M. The company will hire 10 new team members in the UK to facilitate the expansion and bring its agentic AI platform, designed specifically for consumer-packaged goods (CPG) companies, to the market. The Advise platform, leveraging GenAI and Agentic AI capabilities, automates data from multiple sources at speed, producing personalised insights and recommendations for CPG companies to increase their market share and enable informed decision-making. Entry into the UK marks the beginning of Advise's international growth strategy. The UK's CPG market is worth approximately €24BN and the current addressable market for Advise's services in the UK stands at approximately €2BN. With the expectation that this will continue to grow as, increasingly, CPG companies embrace AI, Advise forecasts that its customer base will double in the next 12 months. The company also expects revenues to grow two-fold by the end of 2026 and annually thereafter. The company's expansion comes on the back of its sustained success in local markets. Advise currently counts Britvic, Pilgrim Food Masters, Tayto, Kerry and Dr Oetker as customers. Advise's first UK customer, G's Fresh, have been successfully using the platform for the past 12 months. With annual revenues in excess of £550 million, the family-owned company is one of the UK's leading fresh food producers, cultivating crops on 17,500 hectares of land and offering an extensive product range, from salad leaves to fresh vegetables, across the UK, Europe and North America. John Phelan, Co-Founder and Commercial Director, said: "Our expansion into the UK is just the first step in our international expansion strategy as we continue on a path of rapid and ambitious growth. The size of the UK market and its strong appetite for innovation will allow us to extend our market reach and grow our customer base. "Globally, brands are coming under increasing pressure to boost efficiency while reducing costs. Although the demand for smarter, more agile solutions is evident, many companies are struggling to identify the right AI solutions to meet their needs. "Our team has more than 20 years of experience in researching and developing AI technologies. As a result, we have a product that can not only make recommendations, but explain them, too. It will change the way an entire industry does things - for the better - and now, the time is right for us to expand into the UK. Our entry into the market also marks our first year working with G's Fresh, one of the biggest brand names in fresh produce. For them, and many others, we are redefining how they approach analytics to make the right decisions, faster." Matt Godbold, Category Marketing Director at G's Fresh, said: "The Advise platform has been a game-changer for my department. Gone are the days where we would spend hours processing data. Advise delivers high-quality, customised insights to the G's Fresh dashboard at speed. It's easy, it's efficient, and effortlessly combines multiple data sources from EPOS, panel and survey data to show where the market drivers are. It allows me to shift my focus from manual analysis to driving real business growth." See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTo...

Landmark Technologies, an Irish provider of IT and cybersecurity services, has announced that it is investing €1.2 million in the launch of a Cyber Monitoring Centre for businesses in Ireland. This new dedicated centre will provide round-the-clock cyber threat monitoring and response for both small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) and larger organisations. Headquartered in Dublin 12, Landmark Technologies is creating five jobs over the next 12 months within the Cyber Monitoring Centre across cyber analyst and management roles. It is launching the facility amid growing demand from customers for advanced security solutions against a backdrop of evolving cyber threats, cybersecurity skills gaps, and talent shortages. Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) tools and skilled security experts, the centre will monitor customers' IT environments and offer proactive protection against increasing threats such as AI-based cyberattacks, ransomware, and business email compromise. Landmark Technologies will also provide cyber awareness training for businesses and their employees. In addition, the investment covers a complete refresh of Landmark Technologies' Dublin headquarters. This new fit outincludes upgraded technology, equipment, and facilities to future proof the company's operations as it continues to grow. Ken Kelleher, Managing Director, Landmark Technologies said: "A growing number of businesses do not have the necessary in-house resources to keep pace with evolving cyber requirements. The coming months will continue to bring new and increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, and we expect to see a particular surge in AI-based attacks. Our new Cyber Monitoring Centre will provide fully integrated security services to ensure that customers have world-class protection and, in the event of an incident, our highly skilled technical team will respond 24/7 to ensure business can continue uninterrupted. We strive to deliver technology solutions that enable continued growth for our customers, with peace of mind that their operations are ultra-secure." See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

In the second exclusive interview of the "Treasury Series" for Irish Tech News, Selva Ozelli Esq, CPA, Author of Sustainably Investing in Digital Assets asks Hive's President and CEO Aydin Kilic why he decided to move his sustainable BTC mining company headquarters to the US. President Donald Trump signed the Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for U.S. Stablecoins Act (GENIUS Act) into law on July 18th making it the first federal law to regulate stablecoins. Approved by Congress on Thursday, July 17th the bill's passage saw the digital asset industry assets - particularly digital asset treasury company stocks- surge past a $4 trillion market capitalization for the first time with a report by Coincub showing increased digital asset activity in the US. The GENIUS Act imposes federal and state oversight on stablecoins - digital assets backed by the U.S. dollar - transforming realms of finance forever and making President Trump the de facto crypto president of our Nation. The US's new digital asset strategy as detailed in the crypto report has company CFO's increasingly viewing digital assets as strategic reserve assets. Some are establishing dedicated corporate entities to hold digital assets on their balance sheets and raising capital specifically to acquire them for reserve as detailed in my first interview in the "Treasury Series" is titled "Public Companies You Didn't Know Are Investing in Altcoins, insights with Brian Rudick". Other digital asset technology companies like Hive Digital Technologies are moving their headquarters to the US particularly after President Trump announced that Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Solana, and Cardano will be included in the Nation's 'Crypto Strategic Reserve'. And Eric Trump Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of American Bitcoin at the Consensus 2025 Conference announced "The launch of American Bitcoin [which] represents a transformative moment for Bitcoin mining in North America… I am so proud to share our bold vision for this initiative, which we believe will become the world's largest and most efficient pure-play Bitcoin miner." Recently, Trump Media acquired about $2 billion in Bitcoin as part of its plan to become a BTC treasury company. Aydin Kilic interview Tell us about your educational and professional journey that led you to become the CEO of Hive Digital Technologies? My path to becoming HIVE's President & CEO has been anything but conventional. I began my career in electrical engineering, specializing in radio frequency systems. That technical foundation gave me a strong appreciation for infrastructure, systems optimization, and scalability: skills that continue to serve me in the digital asset space. After engineering, I shifted into Vancouver's competitive real estate market, working in land development and distressed assets. It was a crash course in deal-making, risk management, and the financial discipline of cash flow, all of which became critical when I co-founded Fortress Blockchain during the 2017 crypto bull run. We started as a small mining operation, but within a month we raised $20 million, acquired a 2 MW facility, and went public. That experience was transformative and positioned me to step into larger leadership roles in the blockchain industry. I joined HIVE in 2021, just in time to help ring the Nasdaq opening bell. Since then, I've helped guide the company through some of the most pivotal moments in crypto, from Ethereum's transition to proof-of-stake and two Bitcoin halvings, to our custom ASIC collaboration with Intel and, most recently, our expansion into AI and high-performance computing. It's been a dynamic and rewarding journey, and one that's just getting started. With about 50% of BTC mining companies utilizing renewable energy which are often the cheapest source of electricity, tell us about the advantages, the types of green energies the company utilizes and where the company's data centers are located? Sustainability has been at the core of...

After a thorough development phase, Building Stories, a future-focused research initiative from University College Dublin, is entering a new phase of public engagement and implementation. With the launch of Living Labs in partnership with Monaghan and Cork City Councils, the project is addressing some of Ireland's most urgent challenges, including the housing crisis, carbon emissions from construction, and the decline of town centres. Backed by €690,000 in funding through the National Challenge Fund's OurTech Challenge, the project brings together a multidisciplinary team of researchers in architecture, planning, computer science, and data governance. Building Stories is developing a dynamic, AI-powered geospatial platform to accurately map vacancy in Ireland's built environment, providing leaders in housing and planning policy with actionable, building-level data. Speaking about the project, sustainable urban design expert and spokesperson for Building Stories, Dr Philip Crowe, said: "With Building Stories we aim to give local authorities, national agencies, and communities a new lens through which to understand vacancy, with data that can assist in good decision making and more efficient management of the built environment." Building Stories is a 12-person research team at UCD's School of Architecture, Planning and Environmental Policy and the School of Computer Science, led by Dr Philip Crowe, Dr Gavin McArdle and Dr Rob Brennan. It is affiliated with the UCD Centre for Irish Towns (CfIT) and ADAPT, the Research Ireland Centre for AI-Driven Digital Content Technology, and supported by Taighde Éireann - Research Ireland. The project is building a secure and robust geospatial model that draws on diverse proxy datasets, satellite imagery, and advanced machine learning to dynamically predict the vacancy status of buildings across Ireland. Dr Crowe continued: "Ireland has no reliable, up-to-date database on vacancies at the granular scale of individual buildings and sites. Building Stories aims to provide this data and unlock the more efficient reuse of vacant properties towards better housing delivery, reduction of carbon emissions and the sustainable revitalisation of towns." In summer 2025, the project is being tested on the ground in Living Labs in Monaghan Town and Cork City, which will combine data modelling with citizen science to verify insights and incorporate local knowledge. The project began in 2023 but is now scaling its impact, growing the initiative and refining the model in partnership with local authorities and stakeholders across Ireland. Through open collaboration, citizen engagement, and a commitment to data transparency and governance, the project aligns with EU data and AI regulations, and Ireland's ambition to be a leader in the ethical advancement of a digital society. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Library members throughout County Longford will once again have free access to thousands of popular digital magazine titles through Libby, the award-winning library reading app by OverDrive. This renewed subscription to Libby's magazine service by Longford Library Services is in direct response to community demand for a more seamless, flexible, and user-friendly digital reading experience. With simultaneous access and day-of-release availability, library members can enjoy a wide range of magazine content with no holds, no waiting, and no borrowing limits. Nick Forster, Senior Regional Manager, OverDrive said, "We're thrilled to welcome Longford Library Services back to Libby for digital magazines. It's a privilege to support Longford in providing this exceptional service and we're grateful for their continued trust in Libby." Library members can read from an extensive catalogue of leading publications, including Vogue, Good Food, Rolling Stone, The New Yorker, National Geographic magazine, Hello! and much more. Digital magazines can be read online or downloaded through the Libby app for offline reading on mobile devices and tablets. Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council Cllr Garry Murtagh said, "We are delighted to see our library services continue to evolve and meet the needs of our community. Thanks to the award-winning Libby app from OverDrive, library members throughout County Longford can now enjoy free access to a wide range of top-quality digital magazine titles from the comfort of their own homes." Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon, said, "This is a fantastic resource that promotes reading, learning and inclusion for people of all ages across our county. I would encourage everyone in our community to sign up for their library membership and explore the wide range of digital titles now available free of charge at their fingertips. It's never been easier to stay informed, entertained and connected." Libby offers a seamless reading experience, with the best access to the leading magazines. Existing library members can visit Longford Library Services or the Libby App or, download the Libby app on iOS or Android devices. This is a free service to all members of Longford Libraries. If you are not a member, it is easy to join, call into one of 6 library branches throughout the county- Ballymahon, Drumlish, Edgeworthstown, Granard, Lanesborough and Longford or join online here: Library Membership. Users will be provided with a temporary number until they have an opportunity to call into a library branch. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Researchers from Trinity College Dublin have developed a new electronic voting platform, zkBallot, which resolves one of the core challenges in digital elections: ensuring both voter anonymity and public auditability. Led by Professor Hitesh Tewari of the Research Ireland ADAPT Centre and the School of Computer Science and Statistics, and the recently launched Applied Cryptography Research Lab at Trinity College Dublin, the platform uses advanced cryptographic techniques and blockchain technology to ensure that votes cannot be traced to individuals, while still allowing for public verification of results. Using a combination of Zero-Knowledge Proofs, a cryptographic protocol that proves eligibility without revealing identity, and the Zcash blockchain, zkBallot enables voters to cast a ballot that is both untraceable to them personally and verifiable by independent auditors. In practice, the voting experience is like existing electronic voting systems. Voters receive a secure email link and cast their ballot through a web interface. However, instead of recording the vote directly, zkBallot simulates a blockchain transaction by transferring Zcash tokens from a voter's shielded address to a candidate's public address. This creates an auditable transaction without revealing who voted for whom. Speaking about zkBallot, Professor Tewari said: "Unlike traditional eVoting systems, which often rely on opaque, centralised infrastructures, zkBallot uses open, decentralised cryptographic methods that make the entire vote-counting process independently verifiable." zkBallot is currently suitable for closed elections, such as those held by universities, boards, associations, or professional bodies, where the list of eligible voters is fixed and known in advance. It has yet to be deployed in a live setting, the platform is being positioned as a secure, transparent option for organisations seeking to improve trust and legitimacy in digital ballots. The development of zkBallot comes amid rising global interest in online voting, which is increasingly seen as a way of reducing administrative costs, boosting voter turnout, and enabling secure remote participation. However, these benefits come with new vulnerabilities. A single system flaw could undermine an entire election, raising serious concerns about security, transparency, and manipulation at scale. These concerns have prompted a growing body of research into the use of blockchain technology and cryptographic frameworks in voting systems. Blockchain offers a decentralised infrastructure with end-to-end verifiability, non-repudiation, and the ability to distribute trust across nodes rather than concentrating it in a single point of failure. The research team is also exploring how the underlying cryptographic framework could be extended for wider-scale national voting, though such applications would require further technical development and alignment with electoral policy frameworks. Ireland continues to use paper-based ballots for national and local elections, and previous government efforts to adopt electronic voting systems were abandoned in the early 2000s over concerns around security and public trust. However, recent advancements in privacy-enhancing technologies, particularly in blockchain and decentralised verification, have reopened discussions globally around what trustworthy digital voting could look like. For more information, see the zkBallot website: https://www.zkballot. com/ More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@...

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless is strongly encouraging students and their families to visit susi.ie to see if they're eligible for grant support because of expanded eligibility criteria. Undergraduate students whose household's reckonable income is under €115,000 may be eligible for financial support. Students do not need to have their Leaving Cert results or to have accepted a course to apply. Minister Lawless said: " I am very aware of the costs for students and families when attending further and higher education. That is why my department expanded eligibility for grants by increasing income thresholds to provide greater support. Undergraduate students whose household's reckonable income is under €115,000 may now be eligible for financial support". "These improvements are long-term sustainable improvements which mark a significant step towards easing the financial burden on further and higher education students," he added. Budget 2025 provided substantial improvements to the Student Grant Scheme, including: An increase to the income threshold for the special rate of grant from €26,200 to €27,400 in line with increases in social welfare rates. An increase to all other maintenance and student contribution grant thresholds by at least 15%. An increase to the income deduction for student earnings outside of term time from €7,925 to €8,424, effective for the 2025/26 academic year. An expansion of the eligibility criteria to allow students who have certain immigration permissions to apply for grants. An Increase to the Postgraduate Fee Contribution threshold to €64,315. Also, the Part-Time Fee Scheme for Specified Undergraduate Courses 2025 will see over 100 courses eligible, an increase from 62. A full list of the courses is available on www.susi.ie, and the income threshold to avail of support has also increased to €64,315. Minister Lawless said: "All of these improved supports take effect from September this year. I would strongly urge students and parents to visit the SUSI website on www.susi.ie for further information and to find out if they are eligible for a grant." Students who are planning to attend further or higher education in the 2025/26 academic year can access www.susi.ie to check eligibility and/or make an application for grant support. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

By John Mulhall @authormulhall | john@authormulhall.com is a writer with Irish Tech News for over 8 years and also a Cloud Engineer, Writer, and Novelist. You can learn more about John, and his debut novel "From Terror to Valor: Echoes and Shadows" on his author site at https://authormulhall.com Everyday Politics In Russia Reviewed After reviewing 'Everyday Politics in Russia' by Jeremy Morris, I feel more informed about the human condition, which lies beneath authoritarian Russia. For those who are in, or who have an interest in political science, sociology or geopolitics, this is a must-read about what lies beneath Putin's Russia. A point of note about the writing style. The author has a complex writing style and is not afraid to use industry terms in his explanations and arguments. A glossary of terms would expand the attraction to more general-interest readers aware of Russia as an authoritarian threat. Three short stories at the introduction's start greeted my entry into the book's introduction. The author's real-life extracts are composite examples of many conversations he had while there. They are also reference points throughout the book as they represent the human stories of ordinary Russians. Given the author's extended presence in Russia, finding extensive explanation and context for the book's content was unsurprising. He concisely sets out the context of the read, setting expectations as he moves through the introduction. This book is a political anthology. In short, it's a social behavior story about ordinary Russians. As interpretation is part of the author's premise in the book, he offers many opinions based on known facts and consistently held observations. He wishes to show the great conflict between Russia's welfare message to its people and the harsh environment the state delivers in contradiction. Micro politics, cottage industries and informal work arrangements are part of the author's exploration. I found the reasons offered for pro-war and anti-war activism to be a stark reminder of what happens when the ordinary person gets left behind, only to become a commodity in a nation's elitist agenda. The cross section of ordinary Russians drawn from in the author's research, leans into this point as he moves into Part one. Chapter one starts with Russia's defensive consolidation in the face of humiliating defeats in Ukraine. Chapters two and three explore the roots of Russian resentment in the author's view, along with the weaponization of the humiliation felt when the Soviet Union ended in 1991. The humiliation aspect has little to do with facts about the West. Yet, it was instrumental as a weaponized false narrative in convincing Russians of the threat posed by the West. Chapter four begins part two in the exploration of hopelessness, along with the ideological clash between coercive state control and state welfare. It also looks at the consequences of this disparity, such as thriving underground industries and hushed political views. Chapter five finished out part two with an exploration of the ordinary Russian's interaction with a militarized state, the coercive effect of state policing and how it clashes with welfare pledges. Chapter six begins part three, where the author discusses micro-political climates of all kinds. It follows ordinary Russian interaction, growing the mutual aid concept, and reciprocity among ordinary Russians. This underground movement comes at the cost of state control and modernization. Chapter seven explores adaptation by ordinary Russian households, turning to self-production, and salvaging what they can in harsh conditions to get by. Chapter eight switches gears to political activism, and the stark differences in the methodologies of pro-war and anti-war activism in Russia. Chapter nine is the book's conclusion, where the heavily researched content throughout is recast in summary. It draws supporting arguments from the content to make concluding points. Areas covered include...

EasyGo, the country's largest private EV charging network, has today announced its selection to help deliver a landmark €15 million government-supported initiative that will install electric vehicle chargers at 229 sports clubs across the island of Ireland. The Scheme is funded through the Government's Shared Island Initiative and ZEVI infrastructure funding. Through it, GAA, rugby, soccer, cricket, golf and other sporting organisations will benefit from fast, reliable 50 kW DC chargers - bringing vital EV infrastructure into the heart of local communities, including many rural areas traditionally underserved. EasyGo is one of just three suppliers selected under the new scheme, and is offering clubs a zero-cost, profit-sharing partnership. Participating clubs will receive an attractive commercial offering helping them reinvest in grassroots sport while EasyGo handles installation, maintenance and insurance. The scheme is expected to significantly expand the EV charging network across both urban and rural areas across the whole island over the coming year. While the clubs eligible for the current scheme have already been selected, EasyGo welcomes expressions of interest from any club. This latest milestone builds on EasyGo's rapid national expansion and growing track record of community-first EV charging innovation. The company recently partnered with the Department of Transport to launch Ireland's first Shared Charging Initiative - a pioneering pilot scheme that allows homeowners to make their private EV chargers available to neighbours and the wider public, boosting access to charging infrastructure in residential areas. EasyGo was established in 2018 in response to the growing need for accessible and reliable EV charging infrastructure across Ireland, extending beyond major urban centres. The company's growth is underpinned by strong financial backing, including a €30 million investment raised in 2023 through Rubicon Capital Advisors from Aviva Investors. EasyGo CEO Ollie Chatten said: "This is a major milestone in our mission to make EV charging available everywhere - not just in cities, but in the rural towns and local clubs that are the backbone of Irish communities. It builds on our shared charging pilot and our international expansion, and shows how Irish innovation can lead the way in sustainable transport. Sports clubs are more than places to practice or watch a match - they're where people gather and connect. By bringing charging infrastructure to these spaces, we're making it easier for families, supporters and volunteers to choose electric, every day" Patrick "Bonner" Maher, Key Account Manager at EasyGo and former Tipperary senior hurler, said: "Growing up with my club, Lorrha-Dorrha, I know how important clubs are to communities, especially in rural areas. This initiative is about more than just EV chargers, it's about supporting clubs like mine and making sustainable transport accessible to everyone who relies on them." See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Dell Technologies has today announced the launch and availability of its next generation of flagship laptops, now rebranded under the new Dell Premium line. The Pro Max marks a new chapter in Dell's premium offering, replacing the XPS brand while retaining its hallmark craftsmanship, performance, and design. The new line includes the Dell 14 Premium and Dell 16 Premium and are positioned as the company's lead offering for users seeking high-performance, future-ready devices. The laptops are now available in Ireland. New Pro Max laptops have AI features Built on Intel Core Ultra 200H series processors, the Dell Premium range delivers significant gains in both performance and battery life. The 14.5-inch and 16.3-inch screens offer increased display real estate without expanding the devices' footprint, while OLED options with 4K resolution and 120Hz refresh rates provide enhanced visual quality. The range also includes features such as EyeSafe technology for reduced blue light exposure and Liquid Crystal Polymer fan blades designed for more efficient, quiet cooling. Kevin Terwilliger, Vice-President and General Manager of the PC Product Management Group, Dell Technologies said: "We're in a dynamic era where technology serves as both the tool and the canvas for ideas and innovation. Built for the power users, engineers, creators and AI developers transforming industries, these AI PCs not only handle the most demanding AI workflows but set the standard for performance and creativity. "Reliability, configurability, and performance aren't just features - they're the foundation. We know professionals need tools they can count on to tackle their most critical and impactful workloads, and that's what we deliver." Early benchmarks show up to 33% improved performance for general use and up to 21% faster speeds for lighter creative workloads. The 14-inch model offers up to 20 hours of streaming battery life, with the 16-inch version extending to 27 hours using energy-efficient 2K displays. Both laptops support memory speeds up to 8400MHz, while advanced multithreading improves performance for heavier workflows such as video editing or content processing. The Dell 16 Premium can be configured with up to Intel Core Ultra 9 processors and offers 45W sustained CPU power. An optional NVIDIA RTX 50 Series GPU delivers AI-enhanced graphics and DLSS 4 for accelerated image rendering, while Thunderbolt 5 connectivity (optional) supports transfer speeds up to 120Gbps and multi-monitor setups with up to four 8K displays. The smaller Dell 14 Premium model includes integrated graphics with 29% faster processing, and optional RTX 4050 GPU for enhanced creative performance. Both models support Wi-Fi 7 for improved network speed and responsiveness. Build quality and materials used by Dell remain a key focus, with both devices featuring CNC-machined aluminium, Gorilla Glass 3, and a streamlined edge-to-edge design. Sustainability measures have also been expanded, with the range meeting ENERGY STAR 9.0, EPEAT Gold Climate+, and integrating recycled aluminium and plastics in both construction and packaging. All devices ship with Windows 11 and include Copilot on Windows, Microsoft's integrated AI assistant. The release comes ahead of the October 2025 end-of-support date for Windows 10, as businesses and consumers here in Ireland prepare to upgrade to more secure and modern platforms. Pricing and Availability Dell 14 Premium starting at €1,899.00 is now available Dell 16 Premium starting at €1,998.99 is now available See more breaking stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News hav...

Lean BPI, the Irish digital growth consultancy for SMEs and microenterprises, has announced new survey results which reveal that cost is the greatest inhibitor of digital transformation for small enterprises in Ireland. The research found that almost half (46%) of small business owners cite it as a top barrier. The research of 100 business owners in Ireland, running companies with 20 employees or fewer, was carried out by Censuswide on behalf of Lean BPI. It found that other major obstacles cited by businesses included legacy systems and cybersecurity risks (36% each) and connectivity issues (29%). The latter appears to be a significantly greater issue for organisations who are fully remote, with 37% who operate this working model saying connectivity is a barrier. Despite concerns among small enterprises regarding the cost of digital adoption, 34% admit they have not made use of any Government digital supports. However, there is strong interest, with 75% expressing a desire to learn more about them. Lean BPI is encouraging small enterprises to prioritise digital transformation and take advantage of available supports to protect themselves from external risks and increasing market competition. Concerningly, one-third (34%) of small business owners feel they are not keeping up with the pace of digital change of their rivals, indicating the importance of digital adoption in remaining competitive. In addition, small enterprises recognise the significance of digital adoption in general, with 64% agreeing digital transformation is helping their business to grow. This is evident in the research which found 38% of businesses are getting further sales and prospective leads through their social media channels. It is therefore unsurprising that 75% plan to invest more in digital over the next 12 months and 70% have a clear digital strategy for their business in place. John O'Shanahan, founder and managing director, Lean BPI, said: "Although cost is a significant factor in digital adoption, government grants can substantially ease the financial burden for small enterprises. The research suggests that inconsistent behaviour may stem from an awareness gap, with over three-quarters of small businesses eager to learn more about the supports available. "With external pressures and intensified competition at play, small enterprises risk falling behind if they fail to adapt to the digital environment. It's essential that they conduct their own research and engage with their Local Enterprise Office Network to help break down the barriers to digital adoption. Encouragingly, the majority of small business owners are already on the right path, with a clear digital strategy in place for their business. With the right supports and guidance available, small enterprises can embrace digital transformation with their arms wide open and strengthen their position within the market in spite of external challenges." See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Fugro has announced a partnership with DTACT, a high-tech software company, and Ubotica, a leader in AI-powered satellite intelligence, to develop a unique data fusion and intelligence platform. This solution is designed to provide government organisations with the information needed to strengthen national security and safeguard critical underwater infrastructure. Underwater pipelines, communication cables, and other subsea assets are essential to modern society, supporting global economies and daily life. Threats to this vital infrastructure can severely disrupt energy supply and connectivity. To counter these growing risks, a unified platform combining multiple data sources will enable authorities to detect, identify, monitor and act on suspicious maritime activities, ensuring timely insights and intervention. "Fugro is committed to supporting safe and sustainable maritime operations," said Ivar de Josselin de Jong, Director of Strategy and Government Relations for Fugro's Maritime Security and Surveillance business. "This partnership with DTACT and Ubotica allows us to integrate additional intelligence into our Geo-data, enabling information-driven operations for national security efforts." Fugro will provide comprehensive Geo-data collected using its range of advanced autonomous solutions, including uncrewed surface vessels, underwater vehicles, and aerial drones, all managed through specialised remote operations. Ubotica will provide near real-time satellite vessel tracking data using its AI-driven acquisition technologies. DTACT will then use its data fusion capabilities to combine Fugro's Geo-data and Ubotica's satellite intelligence with countless other data streams, delivering a comprehensive intelligence picture for informed risk assessment and decision support. "Our partnership with Fugro and Ubotica brings together crucial capabilities," said Sander Swinkels, CEO and co-founder of DTACT. "The synergy created by combining Fugro's global Geo-data and maritime expertise with Ubotica's satellite intelligence allows our data fusion platform to create a complete and unified picture vital for protecting subsea assets." Fintan Buckley, CEO of Ubotica added: "Real-time intelligence is transformative for maritime situational awareness. The combined space-to-seabed surveillance and response capability that we are developing through this partnership is a game-changer. This integrated approach, bringing together our insights with Fugro and DTACT, creates enhanced maritime awareness and a near real-time response capability that will secure critical underwater infrastructure well into the future." This marks a unique industry collaboration and a major step forward in the monitoring and protection of underwater infrastructure. The solution will initially focus on serving governmental organisations in the North Sea and Baltic regions. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Surfshark's study reports that Ireland's data breaches increased by 70% in Q2 compared to Q1 2025 (87k vs. 51.1k), meaning over 100 thousand accounts were compromised in Ireland during the first half of the year. Globally, the latest data shows a 34% increase from 70 million to 94 million leaked accounts. The United States, France, India, Germany, and Israel were the countries most affected by breaches in Q2 2025. "Today's digital age requires all of us to share more and more personal information to carry out daily tasks. Whether sharing your name and address for food deliveries, or phone numbers when making a booking at a barber shop, there is no guarantee that businesses are keeping crucial information safe and secure. In the wrong hands, this data can be used to commit identity theft, via social media, for targeted scams or sold on the dark web - where they're traded for further illegal use." says Sarunas Sereika, Product Manager at Surfshark. An upward trend in breached Irish accounts is observed in Q2 2025, where data breaches increased by 70% compared to the previous quarter. Ireland ranks 38th globally with 87 thousand breached accounts (previously 51k in Q1 2025). Data breach statistics over the years Surfshark's analysis of data breaches since 2004 shows Ireland is the 4th in Northern Europe, with 27.3M compromised user accounts. A total of 6.5M unique emails were breached from Ireland. Statistically, the average Irish has been affected by data breaches around 5 times. 18.4M passwords were leaked together with Irish accounts, putting 67% of breached users in danger of account take over that might lead to identity theft, extortion or other cybercrimes. Ireland's full profile in the Global Data Breach Monitoring project can be found here: https://surfshark.com/research/data-breach-monitoring?country=ie Which countries have been the most affected in Q2 2025? In descending order, the ten most breached countries in Q2 2025 were the US (42.5M), France (11.4M), India (1.7M), Germany (1.3M), Israel (1.2M), Canada (968.6k), the UK (944k), Thailand (889.1k), Brazil (639.6k), and China (578.3k). The countries with the highest breach density over Q2 2025 (number of leaked accounts per 1,000 residents): France (172), Israel (130), the US (123), Singapore (26), Canada (24), South Sudan (23), Belgium (21), Ireland (16), Switzerland (16) and Germany (15). METHODOLOGY A data breach happens when confidential and sensitive data gets exposed to unauthorised third parties. In this study, we treat every breached or leaked email address used to register for online services as a separate user account, which may have been leaked with additional information, such as password, phone number, IP address, eircode, and more. The data was collected by our independent partners from 29,000 publicly available databases and aggregated by email address. This data was then anonymised and passed on to Surfshark's researchers to analyse their findings statistically. Countries with a population of less than 1M people were not included in the analysis. The Data Breach World Map is updated quarterly with the most recent data from our independent partners. For the full methodology, please refer to: https://surfshark.com/research/data-breach-monitoring/methodology See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Danny Jenkins is at the forefront of preventing cyberattacks, and his company Threatlocker secures millions of endpoints with 99% protection from breaches. His visionary approach to cybersecurity provides invaluable insights on emerging cyber threats, from cybergangs and phishing/deepfakes to vulnerabilities in supply chains and IoT, revolutionising cybersecurity as we know it. Danny was recently in Dublin speaking at Kaseya DattoCon and I caught up with him. Danny talks about his background, Zero Trust, legacy software and more. More about Danny Jenkins: Danny Jenkins is the CEO & Co-Founder of ThreatLocker, an Orlando-based cybersecurity firm providing zero-trust endpoint security. Danny is a leading expert in cybersecurity with over two decades of experience in building and securing corporate networks, including many roles on red teams and blue teams. He is dedicated to educating industry professionals about the latest cyber threats and frequently speaks on the topics of ransomware, zero trust, and zero-day vulnerabilities. Before taking the reins at ThreatLocker, Danny co-founded MXSweep, a global provider of email and internet security SaaS applications based in Dublin, Ireland, that sold exclusively through the channel. MXSweep later went on to be sold to J2.. Danny was also the CEO at Sirrustec, specialising in white labeled channel delivered email security. Sirrustec Sold to Censornet in 2014 See more podcasts here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Paradyn, one of Ireland's leading managed service and cybersecurity providers, has announced projected revenues of over €1.6 million in 2025 from its strategic partnership with ManageEngine, a global provider of enterprise IT management solutions. This marks a significant 100% increase from the €800,000 recorded in 2024. With a focus on the public sector, Paradyn forecasts continued momentum, anticipating 40% year-on-year growth in revenues from ManageEngine offerings Paradyn has successfully delivered ManageEngine solutions to more than 50,000 users across 40 public sector organisations and government agencies in Ireland, including the ESB, Teagasc, National Concert Hall, Dun Laoghaire County Council, Cork County Council, and Kildare County Council. The partnership has also enabled Paradyn to expand its public sector client base by 20%, underscoring the demand for robust, scalable IT management tools within government institutions. ManageEngine, the IT management division of Zoho Corporation, provides a broad suite of more than 60 enterprise-grade tools that address the end-to-end IT operations lifecycle - covering network and server monitoring, endpoint management, IT service management (ITSM), identity and access management, and security information and event management (SIEM). These tools empower public sector bodies to increase automation, improve visibility across their IT environments, reduce operational costs, and bolster their cybersecurity posture - all while ensuring that services to citizens are delivered reliably and securely. Paradyn's in-depth knowledge of public sector IT requirements, combined with its cybersecurity consulting and professional services, ensures that ManageEngine implementations are aligned with Ireland's evolving regulatory landscape, including the EU's NIS2 directive. Together, the two organisations offer a comprehensive and scalable solution for managing IT infrastructure securely and efficiently. Grace McCauley, Head of Sales - Managed Services, Paradyn, said: "Our partnership with ManageEngine allows us to deliver best-in-class IT management and cybersecurity solutions tailored to the public sector. As public services continue to digitalise, the need for reliable, secure, and cost-effective infrastructure becomes paramount. We're proud to be supporting the government in delivering modern, resilient digital services to citizens." ManageEngine's proven technology and Paradyn's hands-on approach help public sector agencies future-proof their IT environments, safeguard sensitive citizen data, and achieve operational excellence in an increasingly complex threat landscape. See more stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

During the recent Dublin Tech Summit, I recorded a series of podcasts. In my third podcast I spoke with Shane Mann the CEO of Tranzaura and one of the Dublin Tech Summit speakers. Shane talks about his background, IT, AI, Holyhead and more. More about Shane Mann: Shane Mann is CEO of Tranzaura, a Limerick-based leading fleet management company. A thought leader in the fleet management and logistics industry, Shane has been featured in The Irish Times, RTE, the BBC, Virgin Media News, The Business Post, among others. Shane joined Tranzaura from Cook Medical in 2015 and quickly transformed the company's product offerings through his out-of-the-box thinking and expertise in product development. Shane has been instrumental in reinvigorating Tranzaura's branding, marketing and sales operations, and now leads all critical aspects of the company, including product development, operations, marketing, and customer care, to drive the business forward in fleet intelligence. See more podcasts here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Údarás na Gaeltachta, in collaboration with University of Galway, has announced funding for two postgraduate bursaries worth €10,000 each for students enrolling in the University's MA in Planning and Development programme this September. The postgraduate bursary scheme was first launched in 2024 and is designed to support Irish-speaking graduates with an interest in contributing to the sustainable development of Gaeltacht areas. Sustainable development bursary for the Gaeltacht regions Along with valuable work experience with Údarás na Gaeltachta, the bursaries will enable successful applicants to gain insights into the unique planning and development challenges faced by Gaeltacht communities, including those related to economic, social, educational, sociolinguistic and cultural development. Tomás Ó Síocháin, CEO of Údarás na Gaeltachta, said: "We are delighted to support this innovative programme. It equips recipients with comprehensive expertise to address the planning and development challenges that public agencies face when implementing investment and development strategies in Gaeltacht and rural areas. By strengthening capabilities within Local Authorities and planning organisations, we are preparing the next generation of professional planners to champion sustainable development in Gaeltacht regions for years to come." Dr Thérèse Conway, Director of the MA in Planning and Development at University of Galway, said: "Having planners that understand the unique context of minority language areas is central to the future of Gaeltacht regions. These very generous bursaries will fund two Irish speakers, who along with their language abilities, will learn the required planning acumen, through the MA in Planning and Development programme, to engage with these unique areas." Eoin Brett, a 2024 bursary recipient and MA in Planning and Development student, said: "Receiving the Údarás na Gaeltachta bursary gave me direct experience in planning for the future of Gaeltacht communities and a chance to apply what I was learning in the classroom to real projects. The experience gave me a better understanding of how planning decisions affect everyday life in Gaeltacht communities and the unique needs of these areas." The MA in Planning and Development at University of Galway prepares graduates for careers in land use and physical planning, surveying, community and regional development, and sustainable planning practice. This bursary offers a unique chance for Irish-speaking graduates to contribute to the preservation and growth of Gaeltacht communities while advancing their professional qualifications. The deadline for applications is Friday August 15th, 2025. For more information contact Dr Thérèse Conway, Programme Director, at therese.conway@ universityofgalway.ie or visit https://www. universityofgalway.ie/courses/ taught-postgraduate-courses/ planning-and-development.html. See more breaking stories here. More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Arm, the company that is building the future of computing, recently celebrated the official opening of its new state-of-the-art facility in Galway City. Since establishing operations in Galway in 2014, Arm has expanded to 90 staff members locally and more than 4800 employees across Europe. Arm's facility at Crown Square, which recently welcomed a visit from Taoiseach Micheál Martin, will become home to innovative advancements in technology. This project is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland. Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment Peter Burke TD said: "The opening of Arm's new facility in Galway is a strong endorsement of Ireland's position as a global hub for research, innovation and advanced semiconductor technologies. We recently launched Silicon Island: Ireland's National Semiconductor Strategy, which aims to have Ireland firmly at the forefront of the global semiconductor industry, targeting emerging technologies, showcasing our manufacturing expertise, R&D capacity, and enterprise supports, which will generate high-quality, highly skilled employment opportunities across Ireland. I thank Arm for its continued commitment to Galway and look forward to the positive impact this will have on the region and the wider economy. I wish all the team at Arm every success for the future." "Ireland's new National Semiconductor Strategy underscores the country's growing importance in the global technology landscape," said Mike Lardner, senior director, Engineering, Arm. "We're proud that our teams in Galway are helping deliver the computing foundations for the next era of innovation - advancing research, strengthening the local ecosystem, and building the future of AI on Arm." IDA Ireland CEO Michael Lohan said, "I wish to congratulate Arm on this strategic move into a new state-of-the-art facility in Galway City. A key player in the semiconductor industry, Arm is recognised for its capability in mobile and licensing of chip designs. This new Galway facility is part of Arm's strategy to expand its market reach and talent pool in Ireland, supporting innovative work in semiconductor and technology development. I'd like to wish Arm continued success." More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

Fibre broadband network operator, SIRO, and Kerry and Munster broadband retailer, Ivertec, have announced the rollout of a 10 Gigabit broadband service in Killarney. SIRO's first 10 Gigabit connection in the region. The service is designed to enhance Ivertec's existing fibre broadband offering to its significant business customer base. The 10 Gigabit service allows Ivertec to offer Dedicated Internet Access (DIA) services and improved capacity to local businesses, particularly those in the hospitality and retail sectors, where the need for fast and reliable connectivity is essential. Critically, the circuit also serves as a resilient backup route for Ivertec's national network. This means that if an issue occurs on the network, there is a backup connection in place to ensure that end-user businesses do not experience disruption. The foundation underpinning Ivertec's expanded offering to Kerry and Munster businesses is SIRO's 100% fibre network, delivering symmetrical speeds. The latter means that businesses can enjoy the same level of upload and download speeds, which can be essential for business-critical operations such as video conferencing or uploading data to the Cloud. 10 Gigabit fibre broadband will not only allow Ivertec to meet the needs of its customers today but will also ensure that they can seamlessly continue to provide greater bandwidth and speeds to local businesses, as the latter's data demands grow into the future. Aoife O'Reilly, SIRO's Head of Enterprise, commented: SIRO is pleased to partner with Ivertec on 10 Gigabit fibre broadband for its Kerry and Munster customers. The partnership supports growing demand from businesses for dependable, high-speed and future-proofed connectivity. It reflects our shared focus on strengthening digital infrastructure in regional areas." Gerard O'Sullivan, Ivertec CEO, said: "We're delighted to enhance fibre connectivity in Killarney with the launch of a new 10Gb circuit from SIRO. This circuit provides a fully diverse fibre path into our network in the region, complementing our existing backhaul connection between Kerry and Dublin. In the event of any disruption to our primary fibre route, the SIRO circuit ensures uninterrupted service for our customers in the area. This additional layer of resilience is vital for delivering high-availability internet and VoIP services - particularly for the many local businesses that depend on Ivertec for reliable connectivity every day." More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.